4Causes of Primary Biliary Cholangitis
The exact causes of primary biliary cholangitis are still unclear. Many scientists classify it as an autoimmune condition, which causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy cells. Certain genetic and environmental factors would trigger this autoimmune response. Inflammation in the liver in people with this condition begins when T lymphocytes, a form of white blood cells, build up in the organ. In healthy individuals, these cells help identify and attack foreign invaders, such as viruses, fungi, and bacteria. But when primary biliary cholangitis occurs, they mistakenly kill cells in the liver’s bile ducts. [5]
Risk Factors for Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Common risk factors for primary biliary cholangitis include:
– Age: The disease is more common in those who are between 30 and 60 years old.
– Sex: Women are more affected by the condition than men.
– Ethnics: Those of northern European descent are at a higher risk of primary biliary cholangitis.
– Genetics: The risk is higher if you have a family member with this condition or a history of this disease.
These genetic components may be combined with other environmental factors, such as toxic chemicals, smoking, or infections, to increase the risk of primary biliary cholangitis. [6]
